i recomend consider leasing
if your GF has an ok credit file then get her to test the water
dont go to a dealership. Try online
if you can get over the mental block of not actually owning the car then its the only way to go.
benefits are ...
NEW CARS
NO ROAD TAX
COVERED BY WARRANTY
ONLY PAY THE DEPRECIATION + a small margin
SMALL 3x PAYMENT DEPOSIT WHICH INCLUDES FIRST MONTH PAYMENT
LOADS OF DEALS
I have been doing this for my last four cars and every 3 years i get another new one. (my current car is on a 2 year contract).